OSHA Issues Two Educational Resources on Protecting Workers from Mercury Exposure in Fluorescent Bulbs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — OSHA has issued two new educational resources to help protect workers from mercury exposure while cleaning up broken fluorescent bulbs or while crushing and recycling them.   Compact fluorescent bulbs are more efficient than incandescent bulbs, but the shift to energy-saving fluorescents, which contain mercury, calls for more attention to workers who handle, dispose of, and recycle used fluorescent bulbs.

The OSHA fact sheet explains how workers may be exposed, what kinds of engineering controls and personal protective equipment they need, and how to use these controls and equipment properly.   In addition, a new OSHA Quick Card alerts employers and workers to the hazards of mercury and provides information on how to properly clean up accidently broken fluorescent bulbs to minimize workers" exposures to mercury.

Fluorescent bulbs can release mercury and may expose workers when they are broken accidentally or crushed as part of the routine disposal or recycling process.   Depending on the duration and level of exposure, mercury can cause nervous system disorders such as tremors, kidney problems, and damage to unborn children.

The following is suggested for the safe cleanup of broken fluorescent bulbs:

• Notify workers and tell them to stay away from the area.
• Open any windows and doors to air out the room.
• Do not use a broom or vacuum cleaner unless the vacuum cleaner is specifically designed to collect mercury.
• Wear appropriate disposable chemical-resistant gloves.
• Use a commercial mercury spill kit if available, or scoop up pieces of glass and powder with stiff paper or cardboard to avoid contact with the broken glass.
• Use sticky tape to pick up any remaining pieces of glass.
• Wipe down hard floors with a damp paper towel.
• Place all pieces of glass and cleanup materials in a sealable plastic bag or a glass jar with a lid.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after cleanup.

 

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.

Click here for the OSHA fact sheet or here for the Quick Card.